"Look, I don't want to wax philosophic, but I will say that if you're alive you've got to flap your arms and legs, you've got to jump around a lot, for life is the very opposite of death, and therefore you must at very least think noisy and colorfully, or you're not alive." - Mel Brooks

"The Constitution of most of our states (and of the United States) assert that all power is inherent in the people; that they may exercise it by themselves; that it is their right and duty to be at all times armed." - Thomas Jefferson

In order for you to participate in Fri3 or Mini-Matches tournaments, you must put all personal problems with any other player aside, at least for the time the tournament takes. You must not refuse to play with anyone just because you don't like them, because they insulted your mother, ran over your dog, flipped you the bird, drive-by shot your wife, or for any other reason!

When you join a tournament that is free, has no prizes, has a tournament director who is giving of his or her free time and good will, you have a responsibility to give your full attention to the play and play your matches in a timely manner without causing undue problems for everyone.

For instance, if you engage in another match outside the tournament, and are intent on finishing that match when the tournament begins, you are delaying from 4 - 32 people in the tournament. As I have announced during tourneys many times, tell your (un)tournament opponent that you are in the tournament and will resume that game at another time, then leave and start your tournament match.

If someone insults you in the tournament in any way, you must realize that this happens in tournaments, live or not, but, unlike live tournaments, you have the option to "gag" your opponent on Fibs. That's all you have to do. Gag your opponent if you don't like what is being said to you, but you must continue your match.

Blinding anyone for the tournament finals unless they are specifically interrupting in kibitz will be prohibited. The tournament is for the enjoyment and learning experience for all. So, please, put your differences aside and enjoy the games!

Keep in mind that we have some new backgammon players amongst us and they do not always know what is appropriate. Give people some slack and help them out when needed. Above all, keep it fun and enjoy the games!

socksey

"Always keep a song in your heart - it's like karaoke for the voices in your head." ~ Robert Fulton